Tell Alice
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Joanna and her mother start a new life, without her father, in a village in Dorset. Here she discovers a different teenage life in the 1920s, when Jessie Bone is determined to grasp every chance to become a singer rather than fulfill her father's expectations of her. By the author of 'Face to Face'.
Discussion points
What do you think Alice felt when she started her adventure?
How would you have reacted in a similar situation as Alice?
What lessons do you think Alice learned by the end of the story?
If you could ask Alice one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Alice's shoes, helping them understand her emotions and decisions. Use open-ended questions that stimulate critical thinking and personal connection to the story’s themes. Discuss the moral and lessons learned, reinforcing these values in a real-world context. Encourage imaginative thinking by asking what they would do differently if they were Alice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'Tell Alice', the protagonist learns the value of being truthful when she faces consequences for telling lies.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that honesty builds trust and strong relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding others
Explanation: The story encourages children to put themselves in someone else's shoes, as Alice learns to understand and empathize with her friends' feelings.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop emotional intelligence, improving their interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Alice faces challenges but learns the importance of not giving up.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to persist in the face of difficulties, whether in schoolwork, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: The joy of reading
Explanation: Alice discovers a magical world within books, highlighting how reading can be a delightful adventure.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore books and develop a lifelong love for reading.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: The variety of characters in 'Tell Alice' teaches the value of accepting and celebrating differences among people.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives, promoting inclusivity.